Reclamation Releases Final Environmental Documents on Additional Points of Delivery of Panoche Water District’s Non-Central Valley Project Water to Westlands Water District

FRESNO, Calif. -- The Bureau of Reclamation today released final environmental documents for approval of additional points of delivery for up to 5,000 acre-feet of Panoche Water District’s non-Central Valley Project groundwater into the Delta-Mendota Canal, as part of the DMC Groundwater Pump-in Program.

The program allows certain South-of-Delta CVP contractors to cumulatively pump up to 50,000 acre-feet of groundwater into the DMC annually. The program began in 2013 due to worsening drought conditions.

No additional groundwater pumping will occur under the Final Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact released today. The documents assessed an increase in the number of locations for delivery of the water.

For additional information or to request a copy of the Final EA and/or FONSI, please contact Rain Emerson at 559-487-5196 (TTY 800-877-8339) or emerson@usbr.gov.

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Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR.